[mgmueller]

Just arrived!
The package, as usual with Dell, is rather flimsy.
No comparison to Apple or even Microsoft.
But build quality of the Tablet is surprisingly well!
About the quality of Google Nexus 7, I'd say.
Way better than Toshiba Encore for example.
For a € 350 unit, nothing to complain about.

Wow!
There's a SIM slot.
I hadn't been aware of that!
Very pleasant surprise!

Now it's installing my apps.
So far, the display looks great.
I'm not that much interested in "Retina" or "Full HD" and such.
For the stuff I'm doing on those tablets, the common PC resolution of 1.024 x 768 we've had a few years ago, is absolutely adequate. (Venue 8 Pro has 1.280 x 800).
But I want to have a "normal" picture. I've never been a fan of the over-saturation of Samsung for example. For now, The Venue 8 Pro seems very natural, with great viewing angles.

And again: The build quality. It feels rather heavy, not at all "plasticky" but kind of valuable.

I'm installing some language packs now in the desktop.
Hmmm....
On an 8" display, the Windows desktop really is small.
So far, I didn't miss any icons, but a pen obviously would come in handy.
But the fonts are easily readable, no problems there with resolution, font size and such.

Only minor complaint so far:
Why do I have to bother with this McAfee crap?
Especially on such a low powered unit, it's sheer horror!
That's why I prefer Microsoft Surface Pro or Google Nexus 7: You get a clean install, no bloatware!

Strange:
On the German and some other Dell websites, the active pen can't be ordered.
Probably due to extremely mixed reviews, ranging from "great" to "disaster".
Strange enough, I was able to order from the European Dell website.
Should be here in about 2 weeks.
I'm curious, but I could live without pen as well if it really shouldn't be working adequately.